27865, Pinetown, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27865, Pinetown, North Carolina is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care Near Tarboro, NC: A Scorecard

The search for optimal lung cancer care often begins close to home. For residents of Tarboro, North Carolina (ZIP code 27865), several hospitals offer a range of services. This review examines the key players, focusing on factors crucial to lung cancer patients: hospital quality, specialist availability, and access to cutting-edge treatments. We'll also delve into practical considerations like emergency room wait times and telehealth options.

**The Landscape: Proximity and Choices**

Tarboro, nestled in Edgecombe County, is within a reasonable driving distance of several hospitals offering cancer services. The primary focus will be on facilities within a 50-mile radius, allowing for a realistic assessment of accessibility. This area includes larger medical centers in Greenville, Rocky Mount, and Wilson, offering varied levels of care and specialization.

**Vidant Medical Center, Greenville: A Flagship Institution**

Vidant Medical Center, located in Greenville (approximately 30 miles from Tarboro), is a major regional referral center. It's a Level I Trauma Center and the flagship hospital for the Vidant Health system. Vidant's reputation for cancer care is significant, and it houses the Leo W. Jenkins Cancer Center. The hospital has a three-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). CMS star ratings reflect overall hospital quality, based on factors like patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience. While not the highest possible rating, it still indicates a hospital meeting a certain standard of care.

Vidant's cancer center provides a multidisciplinary approach, crucial for lung cancer treatment. This means patients benefit from a team of specialists, including medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, thoracic surgeons, pulmonologists, and pathologists. The center offers advanced diagnostic capabilities, including PET/CT scans and bronchoscopy, essential for accurate staging and treatment planning.

Vidant's ER wait times are a critical factor. While specific real-time data fluctuates, expect average wait times to be in line with a large regional hospital. Patients should be prepared for potential delays, especially during peak hours. Telehealth options at Vidant are expanding. The hospital offers virtual consultations and follow-up appointments, which can be particularly beneficial for patients living outside of Greenville or those seeking convenience. Details on specific telehealth services for oncology patients should be confirmed directly with the hospital.

**Nash UNC Health Care, Rocky Mount: A Community Focus**

Nash UNC Health Care, located in Rocky Mount (approximately 25 miles from Tarboro), is another key option. This hospital has a four-star CMS rating, indicating a higher level of overall quality compared to Vidant. Nash UNC Health Care provides a comprehensive cancer program with a focus on community-based care.

The hospital's cancer center offers a range of services, including medical oncology, radiation oncology, and surgical oncology. It's important to verify the specific availability of thoracic surgeons and pulmonologists specializing in lung cancer. The hospital likely offers advanced imaging and diagnostic services, but confirmation is essential.

ER wait times at Nash UNC Health Care are generally shorter than at larger regional centers like Vidant, but this can vary depending on the time of day and the severity of the cases. Telehealth services are available, and it's advisable to inquire about the specific telehealth options for oncology patients.

**Wilson Medical Center, Wilson: A Local Option**

Wilson Medical Center, located in Wilson (approximately 30 miles from Tarboro), provides another option for residents. This hospital is part of the Duke LifePoint Healthcare system. Specific details regarding its cancer services should be verified, but it likely offers medical oncology and radiation oncology services. The availability of thoracic surgeons and pulmonologists specializing in lung cancer should be confirmed.

ER wait times at Wilson Medical Center are generally shorter than at larger regional centers. Telehealth services are available, and it's advisable to inquire about the specific telehealth options for oncology patients.

**Specialty Centers and Expertise**

Beyond the general cancer programs, it's crucial to consider the availability of specialized expertise. The presence of thoracic surgeons is paramount for lung cancer patients. These surgeons are specifically trained in the surgical treatment of chest cancers. The availability of pulmonologists specializing in lung cancer is also critical for diagnosis, staging, and ongoing care.

The presence of multidisciplinary tumor boards is a strong indicator of quality care. These boards bring together specialists from various disciplines to discuss individual patient cases and develop comprehensive treatment plans.

**Advanced Treatments and Clinical Trials**

Access to advanced treatments, such as targeted therapies, immunotherapy, and minimally invasive surgical techniques, is essential. Patients should inquire about the availability of these treatments at each hospital.

Participation in clinical trials can offer access to cutting-edge therapies and contribute to advancements in lung cancer treatment. Patients should inquire about clinical trial opportunities at each hospital.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery, particularly for cancer patients. It offers convenience, reduces travel burdens, and can facilitate access to specialists. The availability of telehealth services, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and follow-up appointments, should be a key consideration.

**Patient Experience and Support Services**

Patient experience is a critical component of cancer care. Consider the availability of support services, such as:

* **Patient navigators:** These individuals help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system.
* **Support groups:** These groups provide emotional support and a sense of community.
* **Counseling services:** These services offer mental health support.
* **Financial assistance programs:** These programs can help patients manage the financial burden of cancer treatment.

**Making an Informed Decision**

Choosing the right hospital for lung cancer treatment is a significant decision. Residents of Tarboro (27865) should consider the following factors:

* **Hospital quality ratings (CMS star ratings):** While not the sole determinant, they provide a general indication of quality.
* **Specialist availability:** Confirm the presence of thoracic surgeons, pulmonologists specializing in lung cancer, and other relevant specialists.
* **Treatment options:** Inquire about access to advanced treatments and clinical trials.
* **ER wait times:** Consider the potential for delays.
* **Telehealth options:** Assess the availability of virtual consultations and other telehealth services.
* **Patient experience and support services:** Consider the availability of patient navigators, support groups, and other resources.

**Recommendations:**

* **Vidant Medical Center:** Offers a comprehensive cancer center with a multidisciplinary approach and access to advanced treatments.
* **Nash UNC Health Care:** Provides a strong community-based cancer program with a good CMS rating.
* **Wilson Medical Center:** Provides a local option with a focus on community-based care.

**Next Steps:**

Patients should contact the hospitals directly to gather specific information about their lung cancer programs, specialist availability, treatment options, and telehealth services. Consult with your primary care physician or oncologist for personalized recommendations. Consider visiting the hospitals, if possible, to assess the environment and meet with the care team. The best choice is the one that best meets your individual needs and preferences.